Karachi is under strict security as it hosts the 12th International Defence Exhibition and Seminar (IDEAS-24) from November 19 to 22, 2024, at the Expo Centre. A seven-day ban on protests and rallies, effective from November 18 to 24, has been imposed under Section 144 by Karachi Commissioner Syed Hasan Naqvi, following a request from the Additional Inspector General of Police, Karachi Range. Similar restrictions are in place in Islamabad as per a notification by the Additional Deputy Commissioner.
The notification prohibits public gatherings of more than five people during this period to ensure smooth conduct of the event. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will inaugurate IDEAS-24, which is organized by the Defence Export Promotion Organisation (DEPO) under the Ministry of Defence and Defence Production. The event aims to highlight Pakistan’s defence industry on a global stage.
IDEAS-24 will feature cutting-edge defence technology demonstrations, an international seminar, the IDEAS Tri-Services Karachi Show, and business networking opportunities through B2B and B2G engagements. Global defence industries and Pakistan’s public and private sectors will showcase their latest innovations and products of international caliber.
A major highlight of this year’s event is the newly introduced Startups Pavilion, a collaboration between NUST, the Pakistan Navy Maritime Science and Technology Park (PNMSTP), and the National Aerospace and Technology Park (NASTP). The pavilion will focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and defence technology, providing a platform for young entrepreneurs to present groundbreaking projects and gain international exposure.
Senior civil and military officials, along with trade visitors, are expected to attend in large numbers. In the previous edition, 350 delegates from 57 countries, including defence ministers and military leaders, participated in the exhibition.
